About

About NZMASWelcome!NZMAS is New Zealands #1 web site for the reef and marine keeping hobbyist. Its the first place to visit to discuss anything related to saltwater corals and fish and the maintenance and upkeep of saltwater aquaria. Join up today, meet fellow hobbyists, make new friends and join an exciting and challenging hobby that provides a rewarding experience. All visitors welcome!

What is a reef tank?A reef tank is an enclosed ecosystem that simulates that of a real tropical reef. All organisms contained within it interact with each other in various ways; for example, to provide an environment (fish, corals), food (microorganisms), filtration (bacteria within live rock) or services (cleaner shrimps) Stability of the environment is maintained by a combination of sufficient lighting (for photosynthesis), water movement (for oxygenation, waste removal and providing food for corals) and the reef itself (for filtration and providing an environment for the tanks inhabitants)

What does it take?If you have patience, determination, enjoy a challenge and have a love for the sea then a saltwater tank is certainly a hobby that fits your personality. Creating your own living aquaria, one that emulates a small portion of a natural coral reef is highly rewarding. The beauty of such a system, from the vibrant colours and interactions of marine fish to the numerous shapes and colours of corals can be simply mesmerising! Before you start building your new reef, we encourage you to join NZMAS and do your research first!

Who runs NZMAS?NZMAS was started up in February 2007 by a reef keeping hobbyist (chimera) after it was felt a dedicated New Zealand marine aquarium web site and forum would be beneficial to the hobby. NZMAS has grown to over 600 members and now has a wealth of information based on other hobbyists experiences. The site is now entirely funded by NZMAS members (via membership fees) with the balance coming from sponsors (so please be sure to support them). The New Zealand Marine Aquarium Society was formally registered in September 2008 and the site administrator and society officers are working to provide registered members with even more benefits. NZMAS membership fees combined with contributions from site sponsors will ensure NZMAS remains financially self-sustaining in the long term. For more information regarding the NZMAS Society, see here